Jibril Adan
22 January 2008
Nairobi — The US Ambassador, Mr Michael Ranneberger, has defended his Government against claims that it had contributed to the post-election crisis.
The envoy dismissed Government advertisements, which implied the US was partly to blame for the violence that has left more than 500 dead and thousands displaced.
"My first thought was that these scurrilous propaganda advertisements should not be dignified with a response. Upon further reflection, however, I believe the record should indeed be set straight in the interest of ensuring that the people know the truth," said Ranneberger in a statement.
In the media adverts from the Office of Public Communications, headed by Dr Alfred Mutua, said those who termed the tallying of the presidential votes as flawed had caused the violence.
Ranneberger maintained that the exercise was flawed like several non-partisan bodies concluded.
Both local and international observers have said the tallying of the presidential vote was questionable.
The Electoral Commission chairman, Mr Samuel Kivuitu, has also cast doubts on the process, saying he was not sure who won between President Kibaki and Mr Raila Odinga of ODM.
On Monday, the US ambassador said the Governments claims in the adverts would not help end the crisis.
"It is irresponsible to say, as the advertisements do, that speaking the truth provides incitement to ethnic violence. From the outset of the current crisis, I have repeatedly emphasised my Government's support for the rule of law," he said.
Ranneberger added that the rule of law must also ensure the right to peaceful assembly and protection of human rights.
"The advertisements contribute to polarisation and reflect hard-line positions, instead of conveying the positive message clearly enunciated in the statement which President Kibaki issued on January 8," he said.
The adverts, which have been running for several days in the print and electronic media, point an accusing finger at the US, European Union, local and international media and observers.
Ranneberger said the crisis could only be resolved through a political agreement.
He said the arrival of former United Nations Secretary-General, Mr Kofi Annan, provides an opportunity for Kibaki and Raila to reach a settlement.
The violence, which started just after Kibaki was declared winner and sworn in, has left a trail of destruction after protesters looted and burnt homes and business premises.
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